FIJI NATIONAL UNIVERSITY
Isireli Vakamino was in a mood to dance and be happy as he showed his joy after graduating at the FMF Gymnasium yesterday.
The Fiji National University Student said he could no longer hold his joy and with tears, he said: “I made it”.
He graduated with a Bachelor in Secondary Education. Speaking to the Fiji Sun, Mr Vakamoni said his story of success was a long, sad and emotional one. The former Nasinu Secondary Student said after high school he joined FNU Lautoka Campus in 2011 pursuing his B.Ed Course. “On the third trimester of my second year, my family could not afford to pay for my school fees,” he said.
“I was told by my father to come back to the village because of financial constraints.”
Mr Vakamino hails from Tawake Village in Udu Point, Vanua Levu. “There are four of us and as the only guy in the family; I told my father that I will leave school to look after my sisters’ education.
“Unfortunately, the youngest died when she was in class six so I had to make sure my other two sisters graduated.”
He said he was supporting his sisters until they were both married.
“After three years of being a Yaqona farmer, I then decided to complete my education from where I stopped,” he said.
He was back in school in 2016. “I can say I am the happiest student today and I thank the Lord for his provisions.
“It was not an easy road for me, but I believe that God will lift us up if we humble ourselves.
“But success comes after struggles.
“Till today, my family came all the way from Udu Point to witness my success and celebrate with me.” Mr Vakamino dedicated his success to his parents, family and relatives.
“I wouldn’t be here without the support from my family and relatives and today, it has ended on a hill top.”